Before it gets too frigid, you need to take proactive steps to safeguard your mode of transportation. Yes, it’s time to get your car ready for winter.
Change to Winter Oil
You should be getting regular oil changes. However, when it gets colder your car’s oil could gunk up even more. That is why you might want to check your owner’s manual to see if there is a different grade of recommended oil for the winter.
Check Your Tires
This applies to any place where there is a history of snow. Most cars have all season tires. However, winter tires utilize a softer rubber for the treads. That improves the grip. Even if you’re sticking with the all season tires (which can do the job) you have to make sure you’re treads aren’t worn down. When was the last time you checked your tires?
Fill Up the Antifreeze
The title “antifreeze” says it all. Time to check those levels in your radiator to make sure you’re not freezing up.
Diagnose the Battery
How long have you been driving with your current battery? If you’re up to the three-year anniversary, then you’ll want to check the charge to see how much juice you have left. Don’t get stuck with a dead battery.
Replace the Windshield Wipers
You know when it is time to replace the windshield wipers? It’s when it rains, or snows and they don’t do their job. You know when you remember to replace the windshield wipers? It’s when it rains, or snows and they don’t do their job. This is one of those things where you should be proactive. Stop and think: Were your wipers working the last time you used them? If not, then swap them out today!
Prepare for the Worst
No one who ever got stuck on the highway in a snowstorm said, “Gee wouldn’t it be fun to get stuck on the highway in a snowstorm today.” These things happen, and you can be prepared for them. An emergency kit tucked in your trunk should have water, candles, matches, blanket, energy bars, and a folding shovel. Bonus points for flares, traffic reflectors and boots. Better to have and not need than to need and not have!
Of course, the best way to get your car ready for winter driving is to avoid it all together. Anytime you hear a news report urging people to “stay home” you should embrace that. Nothing wrong with taking a snow day!
